When thinking about your child’s health, you probably focus on regular check-ups, immunisations, and a balanced diet. But what about their teeth? It’s easy to assume baby teeth aren’t that important. In truth, primary (baby) teeth play a vital role in your child’s early development, and caring for them properly can set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health habits.
Why Baby Teeth Are So Important
- They Help with Proper Nutrition:
Baby teeth allow children to chew food effectively. If they’re decayed or missing, children may avoid certain foods, which can lead to poor nutrition and slow development.
- They Support Speech Development:
Teeth are essential for learning to speak clearly. Painful or missing teeth can delay speech and affect your child’s ability to communicate confidently.
- They Maintain Space for Adult Teeth:
Think of baby teeth as natural space-holders. They guide the permanent teeth into their correct positions. If a baby tooth is lost too soon (perhaps due to decay), other teeth can shift, causing crowding or misalignment later on.
- They Contribute to Self-Confidence:
A healthy smile plays a big role in how children feel about themselves. Oral pain, visible decay, or missing teeth can make children self-conscious in social settings like school.
The Importance of Early Dental Visits for Baby Teeth
The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child to the dentist by the age of one, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. These early check ups for your child aren’t just for spotting decay – they help create a ‘dental home’ where your child becomes comfortable and confident with dental visits.
During these visits, your child’s dentist will:
- Examine their teeth and gums
- Monitor the development of their mouth, jaw and teeth
- Offer advice on brushing, teething, and diet
- Discuss dummy (soother) use and thumb-sucking habits
- Apply fluoride varnish if necessary to help prevent decay
How to Take Care of Baby Teeth
Start early: Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft cloth before teeth come in. Once they appear, brush twice a day using a small, soft toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (1,000 ppm for under 3s).
Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle: Milk or juice at bedtime can lead to ‘early childhood caries’ also known as bottle carries- tooth decay caused by prolonged sugar exposure.
Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Encourage water between meals and offer tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, raw veg, or plain yoghurt.
Be a role model: Let your child see you brushing and flossing – good habits start at home.
Preventive care in childhood reduces the need for invasive treatments later and builds lifelong habits. Children who visit the dentist regularly from an early age are more likely to maintain good oral health, experience less pain, and avoid missing school due to dental issues.
Baby teeth may be temporary, but the habits and health they influence are lasting. Prioritising baby teeth care isn’t just about teeth – it’s about supporting your child’s speech, nutrition, confidence, and overall wellbeing. A healthy smile today lays the foundation for a healthier tomorrow. It is important to instill good dental habits early.